Criminal Justice online Masters programs ranked nationally
January 27, 2026 - JJ Thomas
US News & World Report has ranked the School of Criminal Justice’s Online Master's Program in Criminal Justice 8th best in the Nation. The same program was ranked 5th in the Nation for Veterans. This marks a decade of the School’s Online Master’s Program in Criminal Justice being ranked in the Top 10.
Dr. Steve Chermak, Director of the School of Criminal Justice states “The improvement in rankings reflects our efforts to be innovative and the dedication of our faculty and staff. It underscores our commitment to accessible, high-quality online education while maintaining the rigor and reputation of Michigan State University’s School of Criminal Justice.”
Allison Rojek, Director of Online Programs says "We’re proud to move up in rankings, reflecting our continued focus on academic quality and student success. At the same time, we remain committed to being a veteran-supportive program, providing the resources, flexibility, and support they need to thrive with our online masters program."
As the first online Masters Program launched at MSU and the first ever online Masters Program in Criminal Justice offered, the School of Criminal Justice has a long tradition of academic innovation. The School of Criminal Justice also offers an Online Masters Degree in Law Enforcement Intelligence & Analysis and an Online Masters Degree in Cybercrime & Digital Investigation. Students enrolled an Online Masters Program through the School of Criminal Justice learn from faculty with decades of combined experience in fields of policing, terrorism & radicalization, community violence prevention, corrections, youth & crime, and cybercrime.
College of Social Science Dean Brent Donnellan notes “These rankings help to validate the outstanding work of the faculty and staff in the MSU School of Criminal Justice who are providing world-class, cutting-edge education in an accessible format for Spartans across the country. We are proud to be named among the other prestigious institutions on this list. These rankings reaffirm our commitment to transforming the human experience through research, engagement and education.”
Thank you to all of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni who have built and represented the School of Criminal Justice and its programs. If you are interested in joining a world-class online masters program, you can request more information here: https://online.cj.msu.edu/